Does potassium have any harmful enviromental effects????

Question

and if so how can you prevent them????

Answer 1

ANY item, in excess, can be harmful and/or have harmful effects.

Answer 2

No, potassium is a simple element and has no negative effects.

Answer 3

Potassium salts, like sodium salts contribute to the total dissolved solids in water environments.  If the levels are too high, the aquatic animals can be impacted, even killed.  This is rare since the level has to be very high and the use of potassium normally never even approaches these levels.  Sodium levels, because sodium salts are more common, are more of a concern when released into the environment.

Dissolved solids, which may include potassium salts, are also regulated under the USEPA Secondary Drinking Water standards.  For more info review the reference.